Arthur Percival
English General and Singapore Defender
Served as a British Army officer, particularly during World War II. Commanded the garrison in the defense of Singapore against Japanese forces in 1942. Surrendered to the Japanese, marking the largest capitulation in British military history. After the war, held various posts in the British military and contributed to post-war military planning. Authored accounts of military strategy and operations in his later years.
Led the defense of Singapore in 1942
Surrendered to Japanese forces
Served in British military after WWII
Other People Born on December 26th
Aleksej Pokuševski
Basketball player with NBA experience
Born
December 26th, 2001 23 years ago
Born in Serbia, a professional basketball player, primarily played as a center and forward. Entered the NBA after being selected 17th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Gained attention for unique skill set and versatility on the court. Started professional career in Serbia before moving to play in Greece, where contributions helped the team win matches and showcasing high potential. In NBA, recognized as one of the promising young talents, known for all-around gameplay including scoring, rebounding, and passing.
Continue ReadingBrandon Scherff
American football offensive guard, Pro Bowler
Born
December 26th, 1991 33 years ago
An American football offensive guard, earned recognition in the National Football League (NFL) for exceptional performance. Played college football at the University of Iowa before being selected in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Washington Football Team. Established a reputation as a formidable player on the offensive line. Achieved Pro Bowl selections for multiple seasons, showcasing consistency and skill in protecting quarterbacks and creating opportunities for running backs. Joined the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, continuing a professional career that highlighted contributions to team success.
Continue ReadingRohan Kanhai
Guyanese cricket player and captain
Born
December 26th, 1935 89 years ago
Born in 1935, this cricketer played as a right-handed batsman for the West Indies. Active from the late 1950s to the 1970s, he was instrumental in numerous series, particularly known for his role as captain during the 1970s. His technique and flair on the field contributed significantly to the team's performances in international matches.
Continue ReadingMario Mendoza
Mexican baseball player and manager
Born
December 26th, 1950 74 years ago
Played in Major League Baseball from 1974 to 1982, primarily with the Seattle Mariners and the Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to managing in Mexican leagues after retirement from playing. Mendoza became recognized for his defensive skills and later inspired the term 'Mendoza Line' to describe a batting average that delineates a poor offensive performance.
Continue ReadingTrevor Siemian
American football quarterback for the NFL
Born
December 26th, 1991 33 years ago
Played college football at Northwestern University, where set several passing records. Entered the NFL in 2015, drafted by the Denver Broncos. Contributed to the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl 50 as a backup quarterback. Started multiple games during tenures with the Broncos, New York Jets, and New Orleans Saints, showcasing reliable performance as a quarterback.
Continue ReadingAhmed Barusso
Ghanaian footballer and midfielder
Born
December 26th, 1984 40 years ago
A professional footballer, played primarily as a midfielder. Transitioned through several clubs in Europe and Africa. Represented the Ghana national team at various levels, contributing to international tournaments. Played a significant role in club competitions, bringing experience from various leagues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 31st
Thomas Wintour
Gunpowder Plot Conspirator
Born
1571 454 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1606 419 years ago — 35 years old
Involved in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, played a key role in the conspiracy to blow up the House of Lords and assassinate King James I. Wintour was instrumental in securing funding and support for the plot. He was captured after the plot's failure and faced execution in 1606. Wintour's actions were driven by his discontent with the treatment of Catholics in England during this period.
Continue ReadingAmbrose Rookwood
Gunpowder Plot conspirator
Born
1578 447 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1606 419 years ago — 28 years old
Involved in a failed plot to assassinate King James I and blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Rookwood participated in the conspiracy with other notable figures, including Guy Fawkes. After the plot was discovered, he was arrested and later executed. Rookwood was known for his commitment to the cause, believing that the assassination would restore Catholic rule in England.
Continue ReadingJost Bürgi
Clockmaker and mathematician, astronomical tables
Born
February 28th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1632 393 years ago — 79 years old
A Swiss clockmaker and mathematician contributed significantly to the development of precision timekeeping and astronomical instruments. Bürgi developed mathematically sophisticated methods for calculating astronomical positions, leading to the creation of comprehensive astronomical tables. His work in horology, especially with the precision of mechanical clocks, was pivotal in the transition to modern timekeeping. Bürgi also introduced innovative techniques for calculating logarithms, which were not widely adopted until later. He served at the court of the Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II in Prague, where he further advanced the field of mathematics and astronomy.
Continue ReadingUdo Lattek
Football manager and sportscaster
Born
January 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent football manager and sportscaster, gained recognition in the football community throughout the late 20th century. Managed teams including FC Schalke 04, FC Bayern Munich, and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Achieved considerable success in his managerial career, securing multiple league titles and European trophies. Transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, providing commentary and analysis on various football events.
Continue ReadingTerry Wogan
Radio and television host, Eurovision 1971
Born
August 3rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in broadcasting, particularly in radio and television, contributed significantly to the media landscape in Ireland and the UK. Hosted the breakfast show 'Wake Up to Wogan' on BBC Radio 2 for 27 years, shaping morning radio culture. Also hosted the popular television show 'Wogan', which featured celebrity interviews and entertainment segments. Served as the UK's commentator for the Eurovision Song Contest from 1971 to 2008, providing a distinctive and humorous perspective. Received multiple awards for broadcasting excellence throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingBartolomeu Anania
Romanian bishop and poet
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a bishop in the Romanian Orthodox Church and contributed significantly to Romanian literature as a poet. Anania held a prominent role in the church, advocating for faith and culture in Romania. He faced political repression during the communist regime and was imprisoned for his beliefs. After his release, he continued to write poetry and religious texts, becoming an influential figure in Romanian spirituality and literature. Anania published numerous works that explored themes of faith, existence, and national identity.
Continue Reading